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Good day, Hive family, I trust our day has been fruitful.
Have you ever paused to reflect on the importance of that friend who shows up in life's darkest moments? This afternoon, while scatter-thinking, my mind went to one dear person, and I would love to share.
In April, I met a young football talent at the local stadium in my state. From first glance, I could tell he wasn’t from that locality. Then, bam, he asked what I was selling. I introduced him to my healthy ginger and hibiscus drinks, and he loved them.
After about three weeks of his steady patronage, we had an unexpected conversation one morning. I spoke to him about the importance of knowing his genotype. He asked several questions, and I could tell he had many more just like I had a thousand more to ask him.
That day, we exchanged nreadin little did I know it was the beginning of something beautiful.
From our first chat, I confirmed my suspicion that he wasn’t from our side. Outspoken, yet a man of few words, he had one rare quality that stood out, he was a good listener. That single trait drew me to him.
One day, when I couldn’t make it to the stadium due to a pain crisis, he checked on me. His empathy was genuine. He didn’t just sympathise, he understood. He patiently listened to everything I said and offered thoughtful advice when needed.
Soon, I felt comfortable and safe with him, safe enough to share almost anything. Around him, I could bring out my wild, unfiltered self. I think we are both introverts, yet very expressive. At that time, I was emotionally wrecked, struggling to heal from a collapsed marriage, and his support was precisely what I needed. He never judged me; he simply listened.
Though we didn’t get to spend much physical time together before he eventually left, we shared quality moments virtually. At first, I feared he might take advantage of my vulnerability, as others had tried to do, but it turned out he only wanted to be a friend. And for that, I thank God for the gift of his friendship.
I shared lonely nights with him on the phone, pouring out my fears and hurts. Even though I had family around, they couldn’t fill that emotional gap. He became my burden-bearer, diffusing my worries with simple but reassuring words. Subtly, he taught me that even strong people cry and that it’s perfectly okay to ask for help, seek support, and take life easier.
He had his own worries, too, though he shared them sparingly. Still, whenever he sensed my mood was down, he would set his aside just to comfort me. “Calm down, it will pass,” he would say, and somehow, I believed him.
In June, when my fears mounted ahead of my total hip replacement surgery, he went the extra mile. He told me, “I will forfeit the next game to be at the hospital with you. There are many more games.” His affirmations became my anchor. When I felt myself slipping in the theatre, one of those affirmations returned to me and gave me strength.
I can go on and on about the impact of those few months of friendship. But I can boldly say that I am a better version of myself now than when I first met him.
Interestingly, I knew I was older than him, but I didn’t care. I mention this because many women shy away from friendships with younger men for various reasons I won't dive into today. But sometimes, age doesn’t matter, what matters is the sincerity of the heart.
I share this because sometimes, all we need to let go of a bitter past or go through a difficult time is a genuine friend. A shoulder to cry on, a safe space to vent, someone who listens without judgment, and accepts us as we are.
Thank you buddy , for being that gift in my “letting go” season. I may not say it often, but your friendship is truly priceless.
Do you have that one friend in your space? Remember, it’s not about how long you’ve known them, but how far their presence carries you.
Cheers, and thanks for reading